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Our Story

iHuman Youth Society: Building Connections Through Collaboration and Creativity

iHuman is an Edmonton-based non-profit organization founded in 1997 by Wallis Kendal and Sandra Bromley. Their work on the iconic piece entitled The Art of Peacemaking: The Gun Sculpture was the catalyst for the creation of our organization. This powerful symbol of global peace sparked a movement that has since empowered at-risk youth through art, collaboration, mentorship, and community support. 

The significant interest among young people, in both the Gun Sculpture and the seeds of mentorship and community prompted Wallis and Sandra to seek funding that would allow them to continue supporting youth. As they advanced in their mission, they searched for a dedicated space where they could nurture the creativity and well-being of these young individuals.

Over time, iHuman’s programs have evolved into a dynamic model of community care, emphasizing creative services while focusing on the unique experiences and needs of marginalized young people.

stories of courage inspiring our mission

Elevating Our Work to Meet the Ever-Changing Needs of At-Risk Youth

The stories of courage that resonate within our walls serve as a powerful testament to the resilience and strength of the young people we support. Each narrative is filled with unique challenges, triumphs, and the indomitable spirit of youth navigating the complexities of life. These stories inspire us daily, reminding us of the profound impact we can have on their journeys and reinforcing our commitment to our mission.

As we listen to these courageous voices, we are continually challenged to elevate our mission, ensuring that we meet the evolving needs of our youth. The experiences shared within our community highlight not only the obstacles they face but also the potential for growth and transformation. We recognize that their needs are dynamic and multifaceted, shaped by the world around them, and it is our responsibility to adapt our programs and services accordingly.

Ultimately, the stories of courage within our walls are a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and adaptability in our work. They fuel our passion and determination to foster an environment where every young person feels valued, supported, and equipped to overcome adversity. At iHuman Youth Society, we are committed to evolving alongside our youth, ensuring that we continue to inspire, empower, and uplift them as they navigate their paths toward a brighter future.

Since its inception nearly 30 years ago, iHuman has believed in the transformative power of the arts.

Crreativity, Care, and Community 

As a leading nonprofit organization committed to transforming the lives of at-risk youth, iHuman Youth Society provides a holistic sanctuary that fosters growth, creativity, and resilience. Through arts programs, art therapy, artistic mentorship, and comprehensive wrap-around services, iHuman meets the immediate needs of young people using trauma-informed practices and harm reduction principles. This approach creates a supportive environment where youth can thrive, adapt, and realize their full potential.

Mission

iHuman Youth Society is a non-profit that believes all young people have gifts to share. In partnership with marginalized young people, we amplify their creative expression, address their needs, and support goals that privilege their voices.

Vision

Our vision ensures that every marginalized young person feels welcomed, connected, and valued. Without their wisdom and creativity, our future is less vibrant. Our goal is to support our youth in every way possible.

champions of youth empowerment

Our Staff and Board

At iHuman Youth Society, our dedicated staff and board members are passionate individuals who are driven by a shared commitment to empower at-risk youth. With diverse backgrounds in social work, healthcare, the arts, and community and business development, they bring a wealth of expertise to our mission. They are motivated by the opportunity to create real change, believing that every young person deserves a chance to realize their full potential. By supporting iHuman, they engage in work that goes beyond service—it’s about fostering creativity, resilience, and hope in the lives of marginalized youth.

Our Staff Members

Beryl Bacchus

Executive Director
Beryl is driven by her passion for social impact, dedicating her career to supporting strategic development, staff enhancement, brand management & organizational growth. Strategic vision & a commitment to mentorship & empowerment allows her to recognize & nurture the unique potentials of her team, turning vision into reality through collaboration. In her downtime, Beryl enjoys traveling, live music, cooking, & spending quality time with her husband, family & friends.
beryl@ihuman.org

Kshama Ranawana

Executive Assistant
Before joining iHuman, Kshama built a strong foundation in Administration & HR across various social service organizations. Holding a diploma in Human Rights, she also worked on women’s rights & media freedom in Sri Lanka, organizing Right to Information Act campaigns at Women & Media Collective & the Sri Lanka Press Institute. An avid reader & published writer, Kshama has been featured in EconomyNext.lk, Counterpoint.lk, & Immigrant Muse.
Kshama@ihuman.org

Jelena Bojic

Development Team, Marketing and Fundraising
With a rich background in communications, marketing & public relations, Jelena brings over a decade of experience in developing compelling marketing campaigns & securing vital funds for non profit organizations. Her expertise extends to community & government relations, & stakeholder engagement. Jelena's passion for advocacy & her commitment to social causes are reflected in her approach to raising awareness & support for iHuman's mission.
Jelena@iHuman.org

Colleen Thasitis

Development Team, Digital Marketing and Finance
As an experienced entrepreneur with Métis heritage, Colleen brings unique perspective, strong business acumen, & a talent for communicating vision through digital platforms. Known for her holistic problem-solving, intuitive insights & authenticity, she approaches every project with deep commitment to integrity & impact. Now, with a newfound passion for the non-profit sector, Colleen is dedicated to using her expertise to make a meaningful, lasting impact in the community, honoring her heritage & values through her work.
Colleen@iHuman.org

Violet Poon

Development Team, Human Resources
Violet has provided HR support to nonprofit organizations for over 10 years. She values impacting the community in her work. What she enjoys about working with iHuman is their approach to supporting youth with their needs, and engaging their creativity through various art forms.
Violet@iHuman.org

Sean Arceta

Holistic Outreach Coordinator
Sean "Pharush," RSW, has been with iHuman since 2012, dedicated to supporting Edmonton's inner-city youth through creative outreach. His passion for Breakdancing & HipHop culture fuels his ability to empower youth from diverse backgrounds, promoting wellness through the arts & community resources. He understands the challenges & barriers young people face & advocates for accountability within the systems that impact their lives.
Sean@iHuman.org

Belinda Leon

Registered Social Worker
Belinda is a passionate social worker dedicated to iHuman's mission of empowering youth through creative & supportive programming. With a background in community engagement & a talent for building trusting relationships, she takes an authentic & compassionate approach to supporting marginalized youth. Belinda is committed to creating a safe, inclusive space for self-expression, advocating for positive change within the iHuman community.
Belinda@iHuman.org

Joshua Gauvin

Registered Social Worker
As a Registered Social Worker at iHuman, Joshua follows in the footsteps of his mother, who was also a RSW. Inspired by a legacy of compassion and service, Joshua brings a deep commitment to supporting marginalized youth, h/is approach is grounded in empathy, authenticity and a passion for creating safe spaces where young people can heal, grow, and access vital resources.
Joshua@iHuman.org

Roger Ogden

LiNKS Mental Health Psychologist
Roger has been at iHuman since 2013. He earned his credentials as a psychologist primarily through completing his practicum and provisional his work with iHuman youth. Roger continues his work at iHuman through providing counseling, assessment, and advocacy to iHuman youth. Roger also enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience supervising future counselors and psychologists completing their practicum work at iHuman. Concurrent with his work at iHuman, Roger attends to his busy private practice.
Roger@ihuman.org

Kelsey Lummer

LiNKS Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor
Born and raised in Edmonton, AB. Kelsey has spent the past 12 years supporting youth and their families. Previously an educator and now a mental health therapist, she is passionate about helping youth connect to their strengths and find their place in their community. She is committed to advocating for marginalized youth and strives to give them a voice to be heard and understood. Kelsey finds inspiration from nature and enjoys spending time in the mountains on her days off.
Kelsey@ihuman.org

Allie Saurette

iSucceed Team Lead
As Team Lead for iSucceed, Allie is dedicated to guiding marginalized youth with empathy & strategic support. Drawing from her own lived experiences, she connects with youth on a meaningful level, meeting them where they are. Allie’s commitment to trauma-informed care ensures each youth receives the support they need to overcome complex barriers. Beyond work, Allie expresses her creative side through art, live music, & treasures time with loved ones, a good TV binge or nap.
Allie@ihuman.org

Matthew Spearn

iSucceed Navigator
Matt has advocated for social justice since 2016 and has been involved in the Edmonton music scene since the 90s, playing and performing in various bands, fueling his passion for guitar. When not immersed in music or human rights, he enjoys tabletop gaming, painting Citadel miniatures, and bringing their intricate details to life. "Gaming is my way to unwind, blending strategy, creativity, and a touch of imagination."
Matthew@iHuman.org

Efua Ahey

iSucceed Administration Assistant/Navgator
Efua is the iSucceed Administrative Assistant and Navigator at iHuman. With a talent for organization and a passion for supporting youth, Efua coordinates resources and guides young people toward growth opportunities, fostering a welcoming, supportive environment.
Efua@iHuman.org

Maret Langner

Arts Programming Manager
Maret is our Arts Programming Manager leading the development and coordination of creative initiatives for youth. Starting as the Executive Assistant to the Executive Director, Maret quickly applied her background in project management to make a lasting impact on the organization. Her passion for the arts and connection to our youth drive her to create engaging, inclusive programs that empower young people to express themselves and explore their creativity.
Maret@iHuman.org

Samuel J. Mensah

Sound Studio Coordinator
Samjay is a passionate and talented music producer, audio engineer, videographer, and photographer. As the Sound Studio Coordinator, he is dedicated to nurturing youth creativity. "One thing I appreciate about iHuman is connecting with the youth and witnessing their expression through art."
Samjay@iHuman.org

Danielle Jabor

Art Studio Coordinator
Danielle is our Art Studio Coordinator. With roots in Palestinian, Syrian, & Jordanian heritage, she was born & raised in the Middle East before moving to the USA for university, where she earned her Arts degree, eventually immigrating to Canada. Danielle's expertise spans various art mediums & her passion for learning extends to digital media, typography, & textile arts. Committed to community service, she often uses her artwork to as a force for advocacy & change.
Danielle@iHuman.org

Scott Muyser

Fashion Studio Coordinator
Scott, iHuman's Fashion Studio Coordinator, draws on his diverse artistic background in music, dance, theatre, pottery, and sewing. With over a decade of sewing experience, he guides youth in bringing their design ideas to life, believing in the transformative power of art for well-being. Scott is especially passionate about making fashion accessible and inclusive for plus-size and queer communities.
Scott@iHuman.org

Thomas Udell

Soul Kitchen Coordinator
"Since joining this wonderful organization in April 2023, I have had the pleasure of providing nutritious meals to our youth daily. I believe, as we all do, that no one can grow personally or creatively when they're hungry. As a former professional musician and visual artist turned chef, I have embraced the creative spirit throughout my life. I am proud and grateful to be part of an organization that shares these values. Be a hero to your creativity!"
Thomas@iHuman.org

Our Board Members

Melinda Noyes

President
Melinda Noyes has extensive experience working in the Edmonton community championing social issues such as housing, poverty, and neurodiversity. She holds a Masters Degree in Community Development from University of Victoria and is presently the Executive Director of Autism Edmonton. She joined the iHuman Board after a tour of the building and programs in 2020 left an indelible impression of the richness and talent the young people bring to our community.

Gayla Grinde

Vice President
Gayla, a Registered Occupational Therapist and Assistant Teaching Professor at the University of Alberta, brings expertise in early developmental trauma and occupational therapy. With a strong background in supporting families and youth facing trauma, she offers invaluable insights into trauma-informed care as a member of iHuman's board, championing inclusive, holistic approaches that empower youth to heal and grow.

Nik Sihapanyaxay

Treasurer
Hi, I'm Nik, & I've had the privilege of serving as iHuman's Treasurer for the past three years. My journey with iHuman began when I was inspired by the vibrant art painted on the building by talented artists from the organization, along with witnessing the youth creating in a safe & supportive environment. With a background in finance from the commercial banking sector, I bring valuable expertise to understanding the organization's budget & overall financial position. In my free time, I enjoy running, boxing, yoga, golf & the occasional drop-in dance class.

Kealey Dube

Secretary
Stay tuned for more about Kealey

Cecilia Blasetti

Director
Cecilia is an innovative manager in the health care sector with extensive experience working with vulnerable & marginalized populations. With a strong leadership background in the non-profit & charitable sector, she has successfully managed a primary health care center based on the community health center model & has overseen addiction services. Her expertise in building partnerships & collaborations ensures continuity & integration of health care & support services for underserved populations. Cecilia is dedicated to creating positive change within the sector.

Janice Randhile

Director
Janice Randhile - Natoohkiyoahkii is Plains Cree, from Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation and a descendant of the Papaschase People in Treaty 6. A 60’s Scoop Thriver, Janice is dedicated to community healing for current and future generations. Known for her relationship-building, she collaborates with families, Indigenous communities, stakeholders, and police services. Proud of her heritage, Janice draws strength from her culture and life experiences.

Ariel Rombough

Director
Stay tuned for more about Ariel

Lee Axford

Director
Lee Axford practices law in the area of commercial transactions. Lee actsfor a wide range of public and private sector clients, providing strategic advice during all stages of client transactions. Lee received a Bachelor of Science, from the University of Alberta in 2007 and attended law school at the University of Windsor, received a Juris Doctor in 2011. Lee has developed and taught a course in contract drafting and negotiation at the University of Windsor, Faculty of Law. Lee is called to the bar in Alberta, Ontario and the Caribbean nation of Grenada.

Kelsey Johnson

Director
Stay tuned for more about Kelsey

Sandra Bromley

Emeritus Board Member
Sandra Bromley RCA is a Canadian artist renowned for her anti-war and anti-violence artwork, particularly the Gun Sculpture, co-created with Wallis Kendal. The Gun Sculpture served as the catalyst for the creation of iHuman, and her contributions to the organization are invaluable. Through her artistic vision and commitment to social change, Bromley has helped shape iHuman's mission to empower marginalized youth, integrating creativity and advocacy in the pursuit of healing and community connection.

Lorris Williams

Emeritus Board Member
Lorris Williams is a long-time supporter and advocate for iHuman Youth Society, dedicated to improving the lives of marginalized youth. With a deep commitment to the organization's mission, Lorris has played a crucial role in fundraising efforts and continues to maintain strong connections with iHuman. His ongoing support and advocacy reflect his passion for empowering young people and fostering positive change in the community.